Are you a history aficionado? Do you love traveling while learning your past? Well, it seems that Corregidor Island is definitely for you!
Corregidor Island is located 48 kilometers west of Manila in the Philippines. Its tadpole geographical shape adds in the magnificence of this place. This shape is also a plus factor for being a strategic location especially for trade and business.
Literally, the term Corregidor Island means "Island if Correction." Many stories accounts for the name of the island. One of the known reasons is that during the Spanish era, all ships that will enter Manila Bay were required to pass and stop the island to have their documents be checked and corrected. Others would say that the island was a penitentiary or a correctional place that is why Spaniards called the place El Corregidor.
Corregidor Island had been known especially during the time of World War II. This had been a fortress of defense. This place cradled many American and Filipino soldiers. This island became a post and station or the army defending the Philippines against the Japanese empire.
Because of its colorful history the island is bestowed with many historical sites like the Malinta Tunnel which is an arsenal and underground hospital located under the Malinta Hill.
After visiting the old Malinta, visit also the Lighthouse built by the Spaniards in 1836. This is actually the oldest landmark of the island.
If you really want to witness the bravery and fortitude of the Filipino and American soldiers, go and visit the Topside and Middleside. You will see there the remains of the soldiers and officers. You can also have a glimpse on their former barracks and artillery batteries like the Battle Hearn.
For parks fanatics, worry no more because there are also parks that you can visit. There is the General Douglas McArthur Park where a statue of General Douglas McArthur stands at the Lorcha Dock at Bottom side. It is the exact place where his boat boarded to Mindanao on March 11, 1942. This is where his immortal words "I shall return" was professed. There is also the Japanese Garden of Peace Park. The park showcases the various Japanese soldier memorial shrines. The 10 feet stoned Buddha in a Shinto Shrine. Relics of various weapons are also displayed in this park. This park also serves as the praying park for the Japanese war veterans and their relatives. A visit on this park will surely give you a glimpse to the past and a wonderful relaxing experience!
Aside from the wonderful historical sites, Corregidor Island is still an island where you can hop and could do island activities. Around its water, you can do snorkeling and diving. See the wonderful sea creatures and coral reefs. You can also do fishing. Do hiking and camping around its mountain and hills. Experience adventure through real rock climbing. You can also do extreme biking. Enjoy the magnificence of the geography of Corregidor Island!
Do picnic and star gazing while lying on its fresh and luscious green fields.
Aside from the wonderful activities you can do, ghost hunting is one of the great activities that Corregidor Island can give.
This island mirrors the great past of the Filipino nation. However, it does not stop there because Corregidor Island is also a wonderful place for unwinding while learning the past.
